Yeovil-based Blake Envelopes, in conjunction with its partners at The Postal Museum, has designed and donated over 3000 free letter writing kits to London’s children as part of an effort to improve literacy rates in the capital.
This three-year education initiative has been created with the ambition of linking the fictional story of The Jolly Postman, an interactive children’s book by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, to the real history of the post.
The book provides children with a greater understanding of the postal service, can be used to develop communication, problem solving and team working skills and fits with the aim of raising the literacy attainment of London’s children.
Since its launch in September 2016, 4376 children between the ages of four and seven have taken part in the Jolly Postman Learning Programme. These children come from 72 different primary schools across 14 boroughs of Greater London.
‘It is very exciting that Blake have been able to be part of this great programme,’ said Tim Browning, innovation director at Blake. ‘Inspiring creative writing and written communication to children from some of the most disadvantaged situations across the London boroughs, enabling them to connect with their families and friends and to explore the importance of these essential life skills.’
